Deep Creek Lake Fishing

Constructed to power a small hydroelectric plant, Deep Creek Lake became a popular year-round vacation destination for visitors from all over the region. While the lake does provide water that is used to generate electricity, the state of Maryland manages it so that the lake maintains a water level suitable for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.

The lake supports many fish species, including crappie, bluegill, bass, trout, pike, walleye, and perch. And while it’s regularly stocked, yellow perch, walleye, bass, and trout are the most abundant species.

You must stay clear of private boat docks when fishing from the shoreline. You can access the entire lake except for a small buoyed area for those fishing from a boat. Remember, however, that you cannot beach a boat unless it is an emergency.

To fish in Deep Creek Lake or any Maryland waters, you must obtain a fishing license. If you are fishing with a guide, you may not have to worry about a license since most fishing guides secure your permit. If you are fishing independently, however, you must get a fishing license for the State of Maryland before you can cast your line into the water. Children 16 years and under don’t require a license to fish in Maryland, but anyone over 16 will legally need one to fish in Deep Creek Lake. Fishing licenses are available at various department and outdoor stores in the State of Maryland. Alternatively, he can purchase the license directly from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

For those novice anglers without much experience, consider taking advantage of the services offered by the various fishing guides in the area. Fishing guides are experts in the industry and can teach you invaluable skills that you can use to catch more fish. Furthermore, the local fishing guides know the ins and outs of Deep Creek Lake, which means they can take you straight to the ideal fishing spots on the lake. The guides at Deep Creek are available for full-day, partial day or multi-day outings.

You can spot just about any boat on Deep Creek Lake, including personal watercraft, kayaks, and sailboats. The local marinas offer boats to rent while you visit the area, and the rental prices vary on the size and type of boat you are renting. If you’re bringing your boat, you can rent one of the many docks to park your marine vehicle when not in use. There are also two handicap-accessible fishing docks at the lake’s boating facility.

The Deep Creek Lake boat launching facility is open throughout the year, except when ice conditions or winter weather force it to close. There may be a service charge to use the ramp. The Maryland Department of Resources recommends purchasing a Maryland State Park Passport. This passport — available to both residents and non-residents of Maryland — grants unlimited day-use entry to all state parks, unlimited boat launching, and a discount on boat rentals and concession items.

Contact the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce or the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for more information about Deep Creek Lake.